Anti-discrimination
Charles Sturt University aims to provide a learning and employment environment that is free of bullying, discrimination, harassment, victimisation and vilification for all students, employees and visitors.
The University has zero tolerance for discrimination based on factors including (but not limited to) age, disability, race, sexuality, sex and gender identity.
We rigorously follow our legal obligation to:
- prevent unlawful discrimination and harassment
- promote equality of opportunity for certain groups
- report on its employment equity programs.
Charles Sturt staff and students are responsible for and expected to maintain, an inclusive environment where appropriate standards of behaviour are demonstrated at all times. We have a range of policies and procedures that outline these standards and support this including:
What is discrimination?
Discrimination means treating one person or group less favourably than another, or causing them disadvantage, in circumstances prohibited by law. Discrimination can be against the law if it is based on a person’s:
- age
- disability
- race, including colour, national or ethnic origin or immigrant status
- sex, pregnancy, marital or relationship status, family responsibilities or breastfeeding
- sexual orientation, gender identity or intersex status.
Discrimination may be:
Direct - such as when a person or group is treated less favourably than another person or group in a similar situation because of the personal characteristics listed above. For example:
- a student, staff member or visitor is harassed and humiliated because of their race
- an employee is refused promotion because they are ‘too old’
- refusing to hire an intersex employee as it may mean they need time off for medical reasons
Indirect - such as when an unreasonable requirement, condition or practice is imposed that has, or is likely to have, the effect of disadvantaging people with a personal characteristic listed above. For example, requiring all staff to have a drivers licence, regardless of individual position requirements, may disadvantage people with a disability who are unable to get a drivers licence but would be otherwise suitable for the role.
What is vilification?
Vilification is a public act that could incite hatred, serious contempt or severe ridicule towards a person or group. Vilification of certain characteristics is against the law, including vilification based on a person's race, sexual orientation, gender identity, intersex status or infectious disease status, the following activities may be defined as vilification:
- graffiti
- posters, stickers, signs or flags displayed in a public space
- statements or speeches made in public or published on the internet
- statements or remarks in a newspaper, journal or other publication, or on radio, television or other widely accessed electronic media such as social media or email
- abuse that happens in public
- displaying slogans or images on badges or clothing in public.
Information and resources
- Anti-Discrimination NSW - Start Government body that aims to eliminate discrimination, promote equality and equal treatment for everyone in NSW. Answer enquiries and complaints, raise awareness about discrimination and its impacts, and take action to influence change. Resources include:
- Australian Human Rights Commission - Federal organisation promoting and protecting human rights in Australia. Resources include:
- What does discrimination mean?
- Equality at work – for employers
- Guides on workplace rights
- There's nothing casual about racism | Australian Human Rights Commission - campaign exploring how everyday (“casual”) racism shows up and encourages practical action to challenge it.
- Responding to racism | Australian Human Rights Commission - Australian Human Rights Commission page outlining practical options for responding to racism, including where to seek support and the different ways incidents can be reported, depending on the situation.
Support and Information for Staff and Students
The Division of People and Culture's Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and Workplace Relations teams are available for staff who are seeking information or assistance. For contact details see Staff contacts - People and Culture.
A range of support options are available for students seeking information or assistance. See details at Support - Current Students.